Wat Phra Thong
Operating Hours:Daily: 08:00 - 17:30
The Vibe:Mystique of the half-buried Buddha
Just outside Phuket’s main tourist areas lies a temple steeped in legend. Home to a half-buried golden Buddha, this modest shrine holds a special place in local lore and offers a peaceful, offbeat stop.
Bells tinkle softly in the breeze as incense mingles with the scent of frangipani. The midday sun paints golden light on the Buddha’s face, and the temple grounds feel calm and reflective, with only distant sounds of village life.
- Often dubbed a 'hidden gem' temple by visitors for its unique statue
- Featured in local heritage trails for its legendary story
- Highly rated by travelers seeking authentic, uncrowded cultural sites
Persona Fit
- 👨👩👧 Families: A quick, educational stop – kids are intrigued by the legend of the boy and the buffalo
- 💕 Couples: A quiet cultural detour, perfect for sharing a bit of Thai history together
- 👵 Seniors: Easy to navigate small grounds; a serene atmosphere to relax and reflect
- 📸 Photographers: Rare subject matter (half-buried Buddha) and traditional architecture make for compelling shots
Highlights
- Half-buried Buddha statue — The temple’s iconic gold Buddha image emerges only from the chest up out of the ground
- Legendary lore — Local tales say anyone who tried to dig out the Buddha was cursed by swarms of insects
- On-site museum — Hidden Gem: small exhibit hall displaying Phuket’s old tin mining tools and cultural artifacts
- Peaceful grounds — Shady trees and simple pagodas create a tranquil setting away from crowds
1 Curated Booking Option
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Tom Vater
Our Phuket Local Expert
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